It's actually quite easy to trace individuals in the mid-1800s in England. Even if they moved around quite a lot -- which my gggrandfather did -- it's easy to trace families through the 1841, 1851, 1861, 1871, 1881, 1891 and 1901 census returns. Granted, my ancestor had a fairly unique name, James Gilmore, so it's not like I'm looking up John Smith.

Once you find the person you're searching for, certain data do not change -- yes, I know, some census takers had atrocious handwriting, or it is written in another language, or the tenant was illiterate -- but all things considered there are trails our ancestors left behind.

For one thing, the birthplace generally remains the same. Sure, on one census the birthplace for James was Antrim and on another it was Ballyclare, but before you throw up your hands in despair you must realize that Ballyclare is a specific parish in Antrim. Next stop: find out how to obtain a 1929 birth certificate from Ballyclare parish.

Each census is a piece of the larger puzzle. Not all the information will be identical, but there are lots of little cluesthat lead us to pursue another line of investigation.

Most folks find cemeteries depressing. I can understand that. Personally, I find cemeteries to be fascinating and peaceful. (But only during the day. You'll never find me in a cemetery after dark. I'm not that brave!)

Once I've completed the business portion of my visit (photos, taking notes, etc.) I often wander around to check out what mysteries might lie hidden, or to check out a particularly spectacular statue or stone. This large stone cross beckoned me the other day and I was quite sad to read the inscription:

Hartmann

Katie 1857-1875

Theodore 1866-1875

Michael 1868-1875

Joseph 1871-1875

Frank 1873-1875

Children of MIchael and Barbara Hartmann.

What on earth could have led to the deaths of 5 children in the same year? And not the parents? There were no major floods in London that year. Nor was it the year that the SS Victoria capsized. Hmmmm illness perhaps? Fire? Who knows?

Why a blog?

Family history just fascinates me. And not just my own. There are many facts and people that have been lost to time. I really enjoy puzzles and sometimes I come across some really interesting mysteries in my genealogy travels. I'll post some of my musings here.